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Depression

Depression is a mental health illness that affects many people at some stage in their lives. For some people this may be exhibited as feeling ‘low’ while others may suffer from more severe forms of the illness where they swing from feeling very high to very low.

Disinterest in socialising with family and friends can often occur with depression, and some sufferers may experience physical symptoms such as low energy, exhaustion, lethargy or a lack of interest in sex.

Diminished mental agility can also occur and can cause symptoms such as an inability to concentrate on tasks, work or study.

Feelings of worthlessness, anxiety or suicidal thoughts can sometimes accompany bouts of depression and a qualified, experienced counsellor or psychotherapist can help sufferers work through these feelings.

There are different ways to help combat depression. Some sufferers develop strategies to help regulate their lives during periods of depression and the symptoms can often be controlled very effectively with herbal or prescribed medication.

If you or someone you know is suffering

If you think you, or someone you know is suffering from depression, the first thing to do is to tell someone. Depression is not a sign of weakness and talking about your thoughts and feelings with a family member, a spouse, friend, GP or therapist can help develop a support network during bouts of depression.

Sufferers then have the opportunity to decide what support may be suitable and how to get this. It is most important that sufferers do not suffer alone - telling someone how they feel is the single, most important thing to do.

If you are feeling suicidal and live in the UK, please telephone The Samaritans for immediate support on 08457 909090 or contact them through their website at www.samaritans.org

If you live outside the UK, please contact Befrienders at www.befrienders.org